Varicocele Embolization

Varicocele is a condition in which the veins in the scrotum are enlarged. This condition is common, affecting 10-20% of males. Although most men with varicoceles do not have symptoms, some men can have significant symptoms or suffer infertility. Varicoceles can be treated effectively with a minimally invasive treatment (embolization) and surgery. Call Vascular & Interventional Specialists in Fort Worth, Texas, today or book an appointment online to learn more about varicocele embolization.

What is varicocele?

Varicocele is a term used to describe enlarged veins in the scrotum. These veins, which are normally small, become enlarged as a result of abnormal blood flow in pelvic veins. These dilated veins usually appear during puberty and may continue to enlarge with age. 

What are the symptoms associated with varicoceles?

Most varicoceles are not associated with symptoms. A small percentage of men will experience pain. This is most often described as an aching, dull, or throbbing pain; rarely is it characterized as sharp, acute, or stabbing. Some men describe heaviness in the scrotum.

Most symptomatic varicoceles are associated with lumps or bulging along the side of the scrotum. This is often described as a "bag of worms".  

Varicoceles have been associated with infertility and abnormal sperm function, morphology, number, and/or movement.

Who can benefit from varicocele embolization?

Varicocele embolization is a nonsurgical treatment for enlarged veins. You could benefit from the procedure if you have health problems from varicocele, including:

• Scrotal pain
• Infertility.
• Recurrent varicocele after surgery

What is varicocele embolization?

A minimally invasive procedure is performed through a very small incision at the base of the neck. A slender catheter is advanced from the jugular vein into the veins draining the scrotum. Small metal coils and a chemical sclerosant are used to occlude the dysfunctional veins. 

What does varicocele embolization feel like?

The board-certified vascular and interventional radiologists at Vascular & Interventional Specialists ensure that you remain comfortable throughout your varicocele embolization.  The procedure takes about an hour, during which they will administer a sedative to help you relax and a local anesthetic to numb the area. The embolization procedure usually causes very little discomfort.

What can I expect during recovery from varicocele embolization?

The Vascular & Interventional Specialists team gives you personalized at-home care instructions following your varicocele embolization. They recommend taking it easy for a few days following your procedure. Most men can resume "light duty" work within days and normal activity within 1-2 weeks.

Most men will experience symptom improvement within 1-2 months after the procedure.

Call Vascular & Interventional Specialists today or book your varicocele embolization consultation online.